Can't Remove GPU from Upright Mac Pro 2019!

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Level 1

10 points

Can't Remove GPU from Upright Mac Pro 2019!

I purchased an AMD Radeon 5700x to replace the 580x that came with the computer. I followed all instructions to a tee, but when I got to the step that asked me to pull the lever on the 580x to release it, I heard a "snap" from inside and realized that it was no longer connected to whatever release it was meant to engage. Now there is seemingly no way to pull out the 580x as it is FIRMLY in place. Can anyone advise me on this? I can't send the computer away for service as I need it for work and all nearby Apple stores are closed due to the pandemic. I'm hoping there's a workaround to remove the existing unit, but I can't for the life of me figure it out. Thanks!

Mac Pro

Posted on Feb 15, 2021 8:37 PM

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Answer 1

Top-ranking reply

Grant Bennet-Alder

Level 10

140,309 points

Feb 16, 2021 7:22 AM in response to msedaka1

Early on in the process, you needed to remove the flat retainer bar at the right rear-connector/cable side, which retains the PCI-e cards in their slots. The flat retainer bar must be removed from the machine before any cards can be freed at the backplane-end. (Older computers did this job with discrete screws at each card.) All display cables must also be removed from the outside.

Near the removal step, you needed to press the small white button of the side of the PCI-e area chassis FAN, and slide the chassis fan to the left about an inch. This also releases the round shiny vertical steel bar that holds the far (from the backplane) end of the PCI-e cards in place.

Failure to do this leaves the round shiny retainer in place, making card removal impossible.

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Answer 2

Feb 17, 2021 5:26 PM in response to msedaka1

I am so sorry.

Silly me, I mis-read your post as the 2009 model.

You want this video instead:

https://eshop.macsales.com/installvideos/macpro-19late-pcie/

Unlock in this model uses a slide switch, shown in the video at about 1:15.

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Answer 3

msedaka1 Author

Level 1

10 points

Feb 17, 2021 5:08 PM in response to Grant Bennet-Alder

Thank you for replying, Grant. As I mentioned, I did follow all instructions, which included removing the retainer bars on both sides, as well as the lock switch. The step I did not see anywhere is what you are mentioning about "the small white button on the side of the PCI-e area chassis FAN" to slide the fan over. I have attached a photo to confirm what I believe to be the chassis fan, but I did not see any small white button. If this is indeed a necessary step, please advise further and thank you!!!!

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